A Discussion Seminar

In conjunction with[1]

Ritz-Carlton Grand Lakes
Orlando, Florida
January 28, 2016

Seminar: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.

Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ (“Praise Be to You”) makes what are, for many, uncomfortable claims regarding our relationship with nature and the environment. Citing St. Francis of Assisi, whom he takes as his guide and inspiration, the Holy Father “invites us to see nature as a magnificent book in which God speaks to us and grants us a glimpse of His infinite beauty and goodness.” At the same time, however, he compels us to face some difficult truths about our assumptions, beliefs, and behavior.

Please join members of the faculty of Thomas Aquinas College for an invigorating discussion in which we will consider how, through this important document, Pope Francis is challenging the Church and the culture in the 21st century. Together we will explore the uncomfortable truths to which he calls our attention, and we will examine how they are connected to the broader themes of cultural and ethical decline. The seminar will take place on the afternoon of January 28 at the 2016 Legatus Summit.

This event is not a lecture; nor is it a discourse among a panel of experts. Everyone in attendance is invited to participate actively in the conversation, working together to distill and analyze the meaning of this important document. Leading the seminar will be the College’s president, Dr. Michael F. McLean, and its vice president for development, Dr. Paul J. O’Reilly. Dr. McLean and Dr. O’Reilly have collectively spent more than 50 years leading seminars at Thomas Aquinas College, where conversations like this are the primary teaching method and the curriculum consists exclusively of the great books of Western civilization, including various Church documents and encyclicals.

Some Comments from Previous Seminars:

“Great and fascinating discussion.”

“The seminar was excellent. Excellent format, excellent discussion.”

“Perfect topic for today’s event.”

The seminar is open to all registered attendees of the Legatus Summit. To participate in the seminar, attending Legates need only: